Coach Taylor'S Favorite Chicken Casserole
A comforting chicken casserole featuring tender chicken, broccoli, cheddar cheese, and crunchy pecans, baked in a creamy sage-infused sauce—perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Strip the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook until done.
- Place the cooked chicken pieces in an oblong cake pan.
- Arrange broccoli on top of the chicken.
- Mix the cream of chicken soup and mayonnaise together.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken and broccoli.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top of the mixture.
- Prepare the dressing according to package directions, using broth from cooked chicken instead of water.
- Add sage and pecans to the dressing.
- Spread the dressing on top of the cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices before cooking. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise if you're looking for a healthier alternative. If you want a crunchier topping, try adding crushed crackers or French fried onions instead of pecans. This dish can also be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting casserole with a side of Golden Broccoli for a complete meal. A simple green salad or some crusty bread also pairs well, adding freshness and crunch. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, making it a versatile choice among classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, covered, for a few minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coach Taylor'S Favorite Chicken Casserole contains roughly 779 calories, with 45g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (90% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 929mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before layering it on top of the chicken. This will prevent excess moisture from making the casserole watery.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a simple substitute by mixing equal parts chicken broth and heavy cream, thickened with a bit of flour or cornstarch. This will mimic the consistency and flavor of cream of chicken soup effectively.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's going into the oven cold.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).